Can Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Treat Cancer? (A Virtual TCM Talk)

Kit Li​

Last night, I was honoured to be invited to participate in a virtual TCM discussion with Dr. TieJun Tang and Kayvan Beklik, a member of the Chinese Medicine Alliance. We hosted a session on the topic: 'Can Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treat cancer?'

I am currently volunteering as a neuro-acupuncture therapist at the Florence Nightingale Charity Hospice in the UK. Most of the patients I see have already undergone cancer treatment and continue to suffer either from the disease itself or from the long-term side effects of chemotherapy, such as fatigue, weakness, hair loss, emotional disturbances, and peripheral neuropathy. I primarily use scalp acupuncture combined with Chinese herbal medicine to help restore physical strength, relieve discomfort, and improve quality of life.

Highlights from the Talk

Can Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treat cancer?

This is one of the most common questions asked by patients diagnosed with cancer. But what is the deeper meaning behind this question?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), including acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine, may be used as a complementary therapy to support individuals living with cancer. It can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life, including fatigue, nausea, digestive disturbances, sleep difficulties, and emotional wellbeing.

However, conventional medical treatment remains the primary and essential approach for cancer care. TCM should be used alongside, not as a replacement for, oncology treatment.

In accordance with UK regulations, including guidance from the Advertising Standards Authority and the Cancer Act 1939, it is not appropriate to claim that TCM “treats” or “cures” cancer. More accurate and compliant language would be that TCM may “support,” “help manage symptoms,” or “assist with side effects” during conventional cancer treatment.

Which Is More Effective: Acupuncture or Chinese Herbal Medicine?

Both acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine can be valuable complementary therapies to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life during cancer treatment, when used alongside conventional medical care. The choice depends on the patient’s condition, stage, and overall constitution.

Building Trust in TCM:

Some patients are unsure whether TCM can help them. Building trust requires clear communication and evidence-based discussion. There is a growing body of research exploring how TCM may support cancer patients, particularly in symptom management, quality of life improvement, and recovery support during conventional treatment. Sharing appropriate and balanced research helps patients make informed decisions.

Commonly Used Chinese Herbs in Cancer Support:

Several herbs are traditionally used to support patients undergoing or recovering from cancer treatment.

1. Clearing heat and resolving toxicity:
   Bai Hua She She Cao (Oldenlandia diffusa / Hedyotis diffusa), Ban Zhi Lian (Scutellaria barbata), and Qing Hao (Artemisia annua).

2. Transforming phlegm and moving blood:
   Ban Xia (Pinellia ternata) is used to transform phlegm, while E Zhu (Curcuma zedoaria) helps promote circulation and address blood stasis.

3. Strengthening the body and supporting white blood cell production (further details in the recorded video)

Additional Discussion Topics

We also explored several broader clinical questions:

• What are the differences in common cancers between the UK and China?

• How is prognosis assessed in different types of cancer?

• Dr. Tang also shared selected clinical cases from his experience.

Further details are available in the recorded video of the session. (1, 2, 3)

This discussion reinforced an important perspective: TCM is not positioned as an alternative to oncology, but as a complementary system that supports the whole person. Its strength lies in symptom management, constitutional support, and quality of life improvement.

In cancer care, collaboration, clarity, and integrity are essential. When used responsibly and alongside conventional treatment, TCM can offer meaningful support to patients navigating one of the most challenging journeys of their lives.

Videos on YouTube and BiliBili:

1) https://youtu.be/uiVCLMksqPI?si=FjJolN8h3OdzLzHj

2) https://youtu.be/P6EXIoSjlns?si=hvUo72YRpefk84mG

3) https://b23.tv/9RTXxE3

Understanding the San Jiao (Triple Burner) in Traditional Chinese Medicine

 Kit Li

What is the SanJiao (1, 2) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)? What are its functions, and where is it located in the body? These are some of the most intriguing questions in TCM.

In TCM, the San Jiao (三焦) is described as having “a name but no physical form” (有名无形). In anatomical terms, it is considered invisible, you cannot dissect the body and identify a specific structure called the San Jiao. However, it is regarded as a key regulator of internal balance, and maintaining its smooth function is important for supporting overall health.

The San Jiao is divided into three parts within the body: the Upper Jiao, Middle Jiao, and Lower Jiao. Together, they are responsible for regulating the movement of Qi, body fluids, and nutrients derived from food and drink.

1) Upper Jiao (Shang Jiao)

The Upper Jiao is located in the chest area and includes the Heart and Lungs. Its main function is distribution, spreading Qi, circulating fluids to the skin, and regulating the opening and closing of the pores, as well as supporting immunity (Wei Qi).

From a modern physiological perspective, the Upper Jiao can be loosely related to functions such as breathing, oxygen exchange, circulation to the body’s surface, immune surveillance, and the vapour-like exchange of fluids through the lungs and skin. When it is dysfunctional, symptoms may include chest tightness, shallow breathing, frequent colds, and dryness of the skin.

2) Middle Jiao (Zhong Jiao)

The Middle Jiao is located between the diaphragm and the navel and includes the Spleen and Stomach. It is responsible for digestion and absorption, transforming food into Qi and Blood, and managing the transportation of nutrients throughout the body.

It may be loosely associated with processes such as enzymatic digestion, gut microbiome activity, nutrient absorption, and the metabolic conversion of food into usable energy. When the Middle Jiao becomes sluggish, symptoms may include bloating, brain fog, low energy after meals, and a general sensation of dampness or heaviness in the body.

3) Lower Jiao (Xia Jiao)

The Lower Jiao is located below the navel and includes the Kidneys, Bladder, and Large and Small Intestines, essentially the organs in the lower abdomen. It manages waste elimination and fluid metabolism, functioning much like the body’s internal drainage system.

From a modern physiological perspective, the Lower Jiao may be loosely associated with kidney filtration, water reabsorption in the colon, hormonal regulation of fluid balance, and pelvic circulation. When this system becomes obstructed or inefficient, it may lead to issues such as edema (water retention), constipation, difficulty with urination, PMS, or a feeling of pelvic heaviness.

In TCM theory, if any of the San Jiao is not functioning smoothly, the body may become more prone to illness because Qi and fluids are not being transported efficiently due to blockages along the meridians.

To support the SanJiao in daily life, it is important to eat in moderation by avoiding overeating and limiting cold or greasy foods, while choosing easily digestible meals to protect the Middle Jiao. Maintaining emotional balance is also essential, as stress, anxiety, and low mood can disrupt the movement of Qi. Gentle exercise such as walking, light jogging, or practices like Ba Duan Jin can help improve the circulation of Qi and Blood.

In addition, acupressure points such as Shanzhong (RN-17), located at the midpoint between the nipples, may help open the chest and support the Upper Jiao; Zhongwan (RN-12), located 4 cun above the navel, may support digestion; and Guanyuan (RN-4), located 3 cun below the navel, may help tonify the Lower Jiao.

Herbal teas can also be used as supportive measures, such as Peppermint and lemon tea (3) for Upper Jiao support, Hawthorn and dried tangerine peel tea (4) to aid digestion in the Middle Jiao, and Corn Silk Tea to promote urination and reduce water retention in the Lower Jiao.

Ultimately, while the San Jiao may not correspond to a single physical structure in modern anatomy, it offers a valuable functional framework in TCM for understanding how the body regulates the movement, transformation, and elimination of Qi and fluids. By supporting the harmonious interaction between the Upper, Middle, and Lower Jiao through mindful lifestyle habits, gentle exercise, acupressure, and dietary choices, we can help maintain internal balance and promote overall well-being.

References:

1) Sanjiao:  https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/nursing-and-health-professions/san-jiao

2) Conceptualizing a Traditional Chinese Medicine Organ: The Triple Energizer (San Jiao):https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9248333

3) Pepperming Tea: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9283698/

4) Hawthron and Chenpi Tea: https://kitli-vitaqiholistic.blogspot.com/2025/12/gentle-digestive-support-with-hawthorn.html

5) Corn Silk Tea: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15957371/

When Movement Lacks Strength: Understanding Wei Syndrome Through a Clinical Case Study

 

Kit Li

What is Wei-syndrome (痿证) in TCM?  

In TCM, Wei-syndrome (WS) is a condition of flaccidity and weakness in the limbs without pain or obstruction. The muscles feel soft and powerless; the person can move their limbs, but they cannot sustain strength or normal function. Unlike Bi syndrome, there is no stiffness or blockage, the problem is not obstruction but lack of nourishment and activation. It reflects a failure of the muscles and sinews to be properly nourished, often related to patterns such as Spleen deficiency failing to support the muscles, or Liver and Kidney depletion.

In Western medical terms, WS can be understood as a problem affecting the motor unit pathway responsible for voluntary movement. This may involve damage to the upper motor neurons (e.g. Multiple Sclerosis), lower motor neurons (e.g. Motor Neuron Disease), peripheral nerves (e.g. Peripheral Neuropathy) (1), neuromuscular junction (e.g. Myasthenia Gravis) (2), or the muscle tissue itself (e.g. Polymyositis or Muscular Dystrophy). Therefore, WS generally overlaps with neuromuscular disorders that mainly present with muscle weakness rather than pain or sensory problems.

WS usually starts in the lower limbs, patients may first notice tripping, foot drop (3), or getting tired easily when walking. Over time, the weakness can spread to the upper limbs and then to the proximal muscles such as the hips and shoulders. In more severe cases, the respiratory muscles may also be affected. This lower-to-upper or distal-to-proximal pattern of progression is similar to that seen in many Western motor neuron and muscle disorders.

Case Sharing:

One morning, I received a message from a female patient in her 60s complaining of weakness in her limbs when getting out of bed. She also occasionally experiences cramping in the middle of the night and numbness in her calves. In addition, she suffers from insomnia and digestive issues, including tummy bloated and constipation for over a few months.

Following a thorough in-person consultation, the patient reported a history of prolonged overwork and inadequate self-care. She described her main concern as, “I can move, but there’s no strength in my legs.” Based on the clinical presentation and symptom manifestations, a diagnosis of Wei-Syndrome was made according to TCM principles.

Pulse & Tongue Diagnosis:

Pulse: thready (Left) and weak (Right)

Tongue: thin coating 

TCM Diagnosis: 

• Spleen Qi-deficiency
• Kidney Essence-deficiency
• Liver-blood deficiency

From a TCM perspective, the primary treatment focus is to tonify the Spleen and nourish the Liver and Kidneys. In addition, strengthening the muscles and promoting overall energy levels are essential aspects of the therapeutic strategy.  Therefore, treatment aims to:

• Tonify the Spleen-Qi to improve transformation and transportation
• Tonify the Kidneys to strengthen the bones and support the lower limbs
• Restore Qi and Blood to enhance overall vitality

Acupoints:

• LV-3, GB-43 (regulate Qi)
• KI-3, DU-4, BL-23 (tonify Kidney)
• SP-6, LV-8 (nourishing Blood)
• Abdominal Acupuncture: the points for guiding Qi downwards to the Lower Jiao
• Scalp Acupuncture: Vasomotor Area, Motor Area (with Electroacupuncture)...etc

Prescription:

BuZhongYiQi Tang (4) was prescribed for two weeks. This classical TCM formula is used to tonify Qi, particularly that of the Spleen and Stomach.

Ingredients: Huang Qi (Astragalus Root) (5), Ren Shen (Ginseng Root), Bai Zhu (White Atractylodes Rhizome), Gan Cao (Licorice Root), Dang Gui (Angelica Sinensis Root), Chen Pi (Aged Tangerine Peel), Sheng Ma (Cimicifuga Rhizome), and Chai Hu (Bupleurum Root) (6).

Its main therapeutic actions include boosting energy by reducing fatigue, weakness, and low vitality through Qi tonification; improving digestion by supporting appetite, relieving constipation; lifting sinking Qi and supporting defensive Qi due to herbs such as Huang Qi (Astragalus).

Feedback:

The patient reported improved sleep quality, significantly increased energy levels, and a reduction in nocturnal cramping during the night.

This case suggests that limb weakness without pain may present as WS in TCM. Chronic overwork, impaired digestion, and age-related decline in Kidney Essence may result in insufficient nourishment of the muscles, leading to fatigue and reduced limb strength. Treatment therefore focuses on strengthening the Spleen, nourishing the Liver and Kidneys, and restoring Qi and Blood to improve muscle function and overall vitality.

At the same time, similar symptoms may overlap with neuromuscular conditions in Western medicine. An integrative approach supports appropriate referral when necessary, while providing holistic management to improve strength, functional capacity, and quality of life.

References:

1) Neuropathy:

https://kitli-vitaqiholistic.blogspot.com/2025/11/managing-post-cancer-symptoms-with-tcm.html

2) Myasthenia Gravis

https://kitli-vitaqiholistic.blogspot.com/2025/03/it-is-meant-to-be.html

3) Foot Drop:

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/foot-drop/

4) BuZhongYiQi Tang: 

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11287697/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28849026/

5) Huang Qi: 

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40302232/

https://kitli-vitaqiholistic.blogspot.com/2025/09/huang-qi-and-tonifying-herbs-for.html

6) Shengma and Chaihu: In Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang, Chai Hu helps to regulate the movement of Qi, while Sheng Ma promotes the upward movement of Yang Qi. They work together to raise Yang Qi to the limbs and head.

Using RN‑10 (Xiawan) to Relieve Swelling and Blood Stasis

 

Kit Li

As a qualified acupuncturist, you would be thoroughly familiar with the locations of acupuncture points. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), there are 12 primary meridians, divided into three Yang meridians: Taiyang (Bladder and Small Intestine), Shaoyang (Gallbladder and Sanjiao), and Yangming (Stomach and Large Intestine), and three Yin meridians: Taiyin (Lung and Spleen), Shaoyin (Heart and Kidney), and Jueyin (Liver and Pericardium).

In addition, the Ren Mai and Du Mai are extraordinary vessels. Together with the twelve primary meridians, these fourteen meridians comprise a total of 361 classical  points.

One of the most essential meridians I frequently use is the Ren Mai, particularly when treating patients with digestive disorders or emotional conditions. However, I recently experienced something truly remarkable while treating a patient with blood clots in the areas corresponding to the Spleen meridian.

A few weeks ago, a female patient presented with lymphoedema in her right leg and reported wearing a compression stocking for over two years. She has experienced recurrent blood clots in the right inguinal region, with no clearly identified cause. The pain in her swollen leg was severe, and on palpation, the swelling was predominantly located over the regions corresponding to SP-12 and SP-13.

Due to her condition, needling on the right leg was not appropriate because of the lymphoedema and the need to minimise the risk of infection. Therefore, needling was limited to the left leg if required.  In such a condition, the focus is on reducing pain and swelling while supporting the circulation of qi and fluids. On her left leg, acupuncture can help alleviate discomfort and improve overall balance. 

I applied Dao-qi on RN-10 (Xiawan) (1) - a meeting point with the Ren-mai of the Spleen Channel, along with other key points along the Ren Mai, to regulate qi, support the spleen and stomach, and promote fluid metabolism. Additional distal points on the left leg can be selected to support lymphatic flow and reduce stagnation, while avoiding the affected right leg to prevent any risk of infection or trauma.

After 30 minutes of treatment, upon removing the needle from RN-10 (Xiawan), dark-red blood (2) was released immediately. Remarkably, the patient reported significant relief in her right leg afterward. This case demonstrates how regulating the Ren Mai can effectively reduce swelling and improve blood stasis, particularly along the Spleen meridian.

It highlights the therapeutic potential of RN-10 on the Ren-mai to regulate qi, support the Spleen, and relieve pain and swelling. Targeting RN-10, along with other Ren-mai and distal points, as well as selected areas of Scalp Acupuncture, improved circulation and reduced discomfort, even in a patient with lymphoedema and blood clots, emphasizing the value of careful, individualized acupuncture treatment.

Note: The above method is provided for reference only and is intended for use by qualified acupuncturist with a background in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).  Please also note that individual responses may vary depending on a person's constitution.

References:

1) TCM Perspective: In TCM theory, stimulating points like RN‑10 and other Ren Mai points is traditionally thought to regulate qi, harmonize the middle jiao, and mobilize blood and fluids, which is consistent with the patterns you treated (blood stasis, qi stagnation, swelling).

2) In TCM theory: blood emerging from a point, especially dark, thick blood, may be interpreted as release of stagnated blood (blood stasis) and an indication that meridian blockage or excess is being addressed. : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blood_stasis?utm

Embrace Spring Energy: Qi-Regulating Floral Tea for the Season

 

Kit Li

As gentle spring breezes carry warmth, the lingering cold of winter slowly retreats. Yang energy begins to rise, vitality returns, and the natural world stirs from its winter rest, plants sprout, animals become active, and life renews itself. 

Today is the 4th of February, the Beginning of Spring (Lichun,立春), the first of the 24th solar terms in the traditional Chinese lunar calendar. It marks the onset of early spring, symbolizing the revival of all living things and the arrival of the spring season. 

The first day of spring is the true beginning of this transformation, symbolizing renewal, growth, and fresh beginnings. It is a key moment to align with nature’s rhythms, setting intentions for the year ahead. By adjusting daily habits, diet, and mindset to support the upward movement of spring energy, one can cultivate balance, strengthen vitality, and promote overall physical and mental well-being.

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, Spring corresponds to the Liver.  The Liver favours free flow and dislikes constraint, so daily habits in Spring should align with the season's rising and expanding energy.  The Liver governs the free flow of Qi and is responsible for regulating and harmonizing the body's overall Qi movement.

Whether Qi flows smoothly directly affects the circulation of blood and body fluids, the digestive and transformative functions of the Spleen and Stomach, emotional balance, and reproductive function.  The Liver's role in regulating Qi is therefore a key condition for maintaining normal physiological activities throughout the body.

For mental and emotional nourishment, it is important to keep an open heart and mind, remain optimistic, calm and content.  Emotionally, maintaining a bright and positive state of mind while welcoming the vitality of Spring helps promote the Liver's natural upward and outward movement of Qi.

Therefore, I’d like to introduce a floral tea that helps regulate Qi and support emotional balance, especially during the chilly, damp days of early Spring, bringing warmth and cheer to the season.

Pear, Aged Tangerine Peel, Green Tea & Rose Tea

This s a  health-promoting tea that moistens the lungs, relieves cough, regulates qi, eases mood, and clears heat and toxins.  Suitable for: dry throat, cough, chest tightness, or bloating and alleviating the anxiety.

• Chinese Pear: nourishes yin and moistens the lungs.
• Aged tangerine peel (Chen Pi): regulates qi and resolves phlegm.
• Rose flowers: promote blood circulation, regulate menstruation, and soothe the liver.
• Green tea: clears heat and detoxifies.

Ingredients (for 2 people):

• Chinese Pear: 1 large (or 2 small), cut into pieces
• Aged tangerine peel (Chen Pi): 5 - 6g
• Rose flowers: 2 buds (Large)
• Green tea: 3 - 4g (about 2 small teaspoons total)

Brewing tips (important):

• Simmer Chinese Pear and Chen Pi in water for 15-20 minutes
• Turn off heat, then add rose and green tea
• Steep 2 - 3 minutes only, then strain

When to drink:

• Best late morning or early afternoon
• Drink warm
• 1 - 2 times per week

Precautions:

• Rose flowers: avoid for pregnant women, women with menorrhagia and those with sensitive skin.
• Chen Pi: people with “excess heat” constitution should not drink long-term.
• Consumption: not recommended for daily, long-term use due to the inclusion of rose flowers and tangerine peel.

As we enter the season of renewal, let us move gently with Spring, releasing what was held during winter and allowing Qi to flow freely again. By aligning with nature’s rhythms and supporting the Liver’s natural movement, we create space for clarity, vitality, and emotional balance.

May this simple floral tea accompany you through early Spring, gently nourishing the body, lifting the mood, and inviting growth with ease and harmony.